Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup whole milk (or any plant-based milk like oat or almond for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or very strong coffee
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds (or 1 teaspoon lavender syrup as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste; maple syrup works well as a vegan alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gently warming the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the dried lavender buds to the milk and let them steep for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice a lovely floral aroma beginning to fill your kitchen—just like Mama Lou’s on those quiet mornings.
- While the milk is steeping, brew your espresso or strong coffee. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a French press or Aeropress works beautifully for this.
- After steeping, strain the milk through a fine mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds. Be sure to press gently on the buds to extract every bit of that fragrant essence.
- Return the lavender-infused milk to the saucepan and whisk in the honey and vanilla extract. Heat gently until the mixture is warm but not boiling, about 2 minutes. This is where the magic happens—combine it slowly and lovingly, just like my sister Ouma always reminds me when we cook together.
- Froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk vigorously by hand until you achieve a light, creamy foam. If you’re like me and don’t have fancy tools, a tightly sealed jar shaken vigorously works in a pinch.
- Pour the hot espresso into your favorite mug, then slowly add the lavender honey milk, holding back the foam with a spoon. Finally, spoon the foam on top to create that classic latte look.
- Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a subtle warming touch. It’s a little flourish that Mama Lou always added when she served guests—making every cup feel like a celebration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
